Profession theatre technician

Theatre technicians execute all technical tasks to support live performances. They build and break down stages and decors, install and operate sound, light, recording and video equipment and organise the transport of decors and technical equipment for performances on displacement.

Personality Type

• Conventional / Realistic

Skills

• Fit up sound on stage

  Set up, rig, connect, test and tune audio equipment on stage.

• Assemble performance equipment

  Set up sound, light and video equipment on stage before performance event according to specifications.

• Operate follow spots

  Operate follow spots during a live performance based on visual cues or documentation.

• Operate stage movement control system

  Operate control systems for stage movement, e.g. flying mechanisms. Use manual or electric systems.

• Distribute control signals

  Distribute control signals between light boards, dimmers and other lighting equipment. Control systems can be either DMX or network based.

• Install lighting

  Set up, connect and test lighting equipment in a live performance environment.

• Draw up lighting plan

  Create technical drawings and documentation within the lighting department.

• Handle scenic elements during rehearsal

  Handle and assemble equipment and scenery material during rehearsal or on stage.

• Operate dimmer equipment

  Set up, connect and operate dimmer equipment (with plug and socket) in a live performance environment.

• Assemble truss constructions

  Use trusses, metal structures that derive strength from their construction involving triangular shapes, to construct stages for performances.

• Operate an audio mixing console

  Operate an audio mixing system during rehearsals or during live performances.

• Assemble the rehearsal set

  Put together all prepared scenic elements to prepare the rehearsal set.

• Dismantle the rehearsal set

  Take apart all prepared scenic elements after the rehearsal.

• Follow time cues

  Observe the conductor, orchestra or director and follow text and vocal score to time cues accurately.

• Set up equipment in a timely manner

  Make sure to set up equipment according to deadlines and time schedules.

• De-rig electronic equipment

  Remove and store various types of electronic equipment safely after use.

• Assemble scenic elements on stage

  Assemble scenic elements, dance and stage floors and stage cloths, based on written documents

• Modify scenic elements during performance

  Change-over of scenic elements during performance, and follow the relevant documentation during performance.

• Set up technical stage equipment

  Install mechanical and technical stage equipment. Test the installation to make sure everything is in working order.

• Focus lighting equipment

  Focus already installed conventional lighting equipment, based on directions and information from somebody on the floor.

• Set up follow spots

  Set up and test follow spots in different types of locations.

• Adjust projector

  Adjust the controls of projection equipment to obtain a clear and well-positioned image.

• Draw up artistic production

  File and document a production in all its phases right after the performance period so that it can be reproduced and all relevant information remains accessible.

Optional knowledge and skills

Source: Sisyphus ODB